Simeone pointed out how the four forwards exploited the spaces left by Barcelona players during the semi-final first-leg tie.
By Kehinde Okeowo
Atlético Madrid manager Diego Simeone has hailed Nigerian winger Ademola Lookman and three of his teammates following his side’s 4-0 demolition of Barcelona in a Copa del Rey tie on Thursday.
The Argentine tactician watched as goals from Eric García (OG), Antoine Griezmann, Ademola Lookman, and Julián Alvarez gave Atlético the victory against the Blaugrana at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano Stadium.
Speaking during his post-match interview, Simeone praised the performances of new recruit Lookman, as well as Giuliano Simeone, Julián Alvarez, and Antoine Griezmann.
He went on to point out how effectively these four forwards exploited the spaces left by the opposition throughout the game.
“I was impressed by how the four forwards — Giuliano, Julián, Griezmann, and Lookman – interpreted the spaces that the opponent leaves so well,” Simeone said.
ALSO READ: Arteta rues Martinelli’s missed chance after Brentford hold Arsenal to 1-1 draw
He added, “This game will stay in our memories, whatever happens in the tie. We will remember a performance like this. Our fans need games like this: big games, semi-finals.”
Also analysing the encounter, Barcelona boss Hansi Flick suggested why they were thrashed in the first leg of the semi-final of the cup competition.
According to the German, his team lost because the players did not play well in the first half of the match.
He said, “We didn’t play well as a team in the first half. We didn’t press as we wanted, and I would have liked to have seen the hunger that Atlético showed. In the second half, we were better.
“I am proud of my team. It is clear I am not happy with the first 45 minutes, but I am proud of the season we are putting in. We will pick ourselves up and come back.”
The two teams are expected to square up in the return leg, scheduled for the Camp Nou on 3 March.
